I had been focused on using a layering system based on a MontBell down jacket and inner layers for similar temperatures until I tried the MEC Reflex jacket. Not only is this jacket quite reasonably priced, and built to match the rigors of backpacking, it is also a portable furnace. I'm preparing for a trip where I expect temperatures to regularly be near 0 F or below in the evenings and nights. I had considered using a North Face bag which has never left me cold in 30 or so years of use, but which is bulky and somewhat heavy. With the MEC jacket, I feel comfortable using my Marmut Helium membraine instead, and planning to wear the jacket to bed. Having the jacket will also make getting up in the night MUCH easier. The MEC sewing is just as good as my FF products, in my opinion, and the materials are well thought out. There are 16 ounces of 800 fill down in the large, and 17 ounces in the extra large jacket. The down side is that my large weighs 28.0 oz. Hoewever, for really cold conditions, I'll take the weight for the comfort. I'm now able to keep from going right into my sleeping bag in the evening to keep warm. I sleep quite cold, and generally find that a sleeping bag keeps me comfortable only to a bit above the women's rated comfort level. For instance, my Helium only keeps me comfortable to about 28 F, and this is with a medium weight base layer, and balaclava. However, I am experimenting with using the MEC Reflex combined with FF volant pants, FF down booties and Nunatak balaclava, OR mittens as a sleep system without a sleeping bag down to the mid-20s or 30's. While the individual clothing items might be heavier, I think the lack of sleeping bag might make for a quite interesting shoulder season night. Anyway, if you want lots of warmth, give this jacket a look.Jim

the mec reflex is indeed a value leader at half the price of cottage or mainstream equivalents ... and monstrous amounts of down ... it is even a down/total weight leader with a ration > 50% and has a UL shell with minimal features ... and the killer MEC warranty

glad yr happy with yours ...

note ... the womens version is on sale for 169$ ... a steal for what normally costs 400-500$ at other gear makers

feel free to ask any questions ... i have at minimum tried all the gear you mentioned instore ... and own and use the T3 non hooded version

you should be able to call up mec and ask what a medium mens would be in the women sizes ... just keep in mind that there is less down in the womens and its shaped tighter and for certain ... ummmm ... attributes

I wanted the MEC Tango Parka but they didn't have anymore men's. I ordered a women's size large (I am usually a men's medium) and have been very happy with the fit. For that price I would jump on it. Just order one size up if ordering a women's.

Do you think a Skaha Plus w/ some overfill, or Alpine Light down parka combined with another layer, maybe a EX Light jacket or a Micro Puff, keep me comfortable in 0-10 degree temps. I'm kind of limited because I need a XXL size. Thanks John